The state government aims to establish a manufacturing hub at Nelli to create skilled jobs and strengthen national security.
The Assam government is planning to set up its first defence park at Nelli in Morigaon district to establish the state as a defence manufacturing hub in eastern India, according to reports by The Sentinel, The Economic Times and ANI.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the development on 9 November. The state Cabinet approved the allotment of land for the project during a meeting on 3 November.
The proposed park will be developed over approximately 6,000 bighas of land near Jagiroad. This initiative follows the notification of the Assam Aerospace and Defence Manufacturing Policy, 2025, on 23 February 2025.
Sarma stated that the facility would bring arms manufacturing closer to India's eastern frontiers, which would shorten supply lines and enable faster replenishment of military equipment. He added that the park would create skilled jobs for the youth.
The policy covers various strategic sectors, including aircraft manufacturing, small arms, ammunition, drones, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). It also includes maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services and defence-related research and development.
To attract domestic and international investors, the state government plans to organise roadshows and promotional initiatives. The policy offers incentives such as capital investment subsidies, land allotment subsidies, and reimbursement of the state's share of GST.
